Glen Johnson has laid out the targets that Chelsea need to meet between now and the campaign’s conclusion in May.
Speaking to the Metro, the former Blues defender said anything less than a Premier League runners’ up prize will be a disappointment for Thomas Tuchel’s team.
Call off the Premier League hunt
At the moment, the best Chelsea can ask for is for a silver medal in the race for top-flight supremacy.
Manchester City have broken away from the chasing pack with a nine-point lead ahead of Liverpool.
Their 1-0 victory over Tuchel’s men at the Etihad all but extinguished the three-horse race that everybody was hoping for.
Jurgen Klopp’s side still have a game in hand on Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions, yet even this margin probably won’t be enough to derail the holders.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are the only club in the division with all of their fixtures completed, meaning any advantage has since slipped away.
Top two or nothing
Should this faltering title challenge be seen as a failure on Tuchel’s behalf?
Johnson doesn’t seem to think so.
“I think he’s done great,” said the ex-England international.
“At the beginning everyone thought it was a bit harsh with (Frank) Lamps getting the sack so early but I don’t think anyone can really question how Tuchel has taken over.
“I think he’s done a great job, he’s steadied the ship, he’s won the Champions League.
“They probably should be closer to City at the moment but I still think it’s a good season.”
However, Johnson sent a warning to Chelsea about slipping further behind Guardiola’s rampaging unit.
“I don’t think top four (would be a success).
“I think they need to finish second and be closer to City. I don’t think they’ll be happy if they finish fourth.
“If they can just bridge the gap to City and go deep in the Champions League, something like that, then it’ll be another good season.”
Trophies are still on the horizon
Although the league is now out of reach, the Blues could still conclude the year with four items of silverware in their cabinet.
The UEFA Super Cup has already been secured, which may be followed by the Carabao Cup later this month.
Their FA Cup journey continues tomorrow at home to Plymouth Argyle, whilst the European defence restarts with a visit from Lille in 18 days’ time.
Chelsea are expected to win both ties and delve deeper into the respective competitions.
Win all three tournaments and the Premier League fight can be forgotten for another term.
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